Hedy Weiss: Theater Reviews

Theater and Dance Critic of the Chicago Sun-Times, Hedy Weiss joins us to review the latest productions.

On the Town
Three American sailors look for love, fun, and the beautiful “Miss Turnstiles” during their 24-hour shore leave in New York City. "On the Town" follows the adventures of Gabey (Max Clayton), Ozzie (Jeff Smith), and Chip (Seth Danner) in this “helluva town.” The play runs for two hours and 15 minutes, and will be performed until Oct. 12. Tickets start at $40.

The Whaleship Essex
Follow along with the ship that inspired Herman Melville’s "Moby-Dick" in Shattered Globe Theatre’s production of "The Whaleship Essex." Penned by Joe Forbrich, a founding ensemble member of Shattered Globe, the play is based on firsthand accounts of the ship’s fateful journey. "The Whaleship Essex" runs two hours and 15 minutes and will be performed until Oct. 11. Tickets start at $18.

Theater Wit
1229 W. Belmont Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 975-8150

Churchill
This one-man show follows Winston Churchill (Ronald Keaton) in the wake of a shocking loss in a post-World War II election. When he’s invited to speak in the U.S. by President Harry Truman, Churchill reflects on his life with humor, pride, and regret. Observers will also learn of the man’s fondness for whiskey, cigars, and women. "Churchill" will be performed until Nov. 9. Tickets start at $39.50.

Greenhouse Theatre Center
2257 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60614

My Name is Asher Lev
A young Jewish painter is torn between his Hasidic upbringing and his desire to fulfill his artistic promise in this production by TimeLine Theatre Company. Passion fights faith when Asher’s (Alex Weisman) genius threatens his relationship with his parents. Adapted from a best-selling novel, "My Name is Asher Lev," runs for 90 minutes and will be performed until Oct. 18. Tickets start at $27.

Stage 773
1225 W. Belmont Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657

Web Extra: Hedy reviews "The Games Afoot" in this web extra video. Watch her review and learn more about the play below.

The Game’s Afoot
It’s one mega-mystery when Broadway star William Gillette (Derek Hasenstab) finds one of his guests has been stabbed to death. Gillette steps back into his acclaimed role of Sherlock Holmes to track down the killer before he attacks again. This whodunit is filled with unexpected twists, turns, and general chaos. "The Game’s Afoot" will be performed until Oct. 19. Tickets start at $40.